DALLAS — Luka Doncic delivered a stunning performance with 39 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a 144-119 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night. Doncic’s triple-double, his 36th with at least 30 points, puts him just one behind LeBron James for third on the all-time list.

The Spurs, already on a 1-21 skid, faced further challenges when rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama was ruled out due to an ankle sprain sustained during warmups. Wembanyama, who had been dealing with soreness in the same ankle, stepped on a ball boy’s foot, leading coach Gregg Popovich to sideline him as a precaution.

Jeremy Sochan led the Spurs with 23 points and nine rebounds. However, San Antonio couldn’t overcome the absence of Wembanyama, losing their fourth consecutive game since halting an 18-game losing streak, the franchise’s longest.

For the Mavericks, Tim Hardaway Jr. added 23 points, and Dante Exum contributed 20 points in a well-rounded offensive display. The win helped Dallas end a three-game losing streak, which included a 26-point loss to Houston when both Doncic and Kyrie Irving were out. Irving has missed eight straight games with a right heel bruise.

Doncic, nearing a career milestone of 10,000 points, was efficient from the field, shooting 13 of 27, including 5 of 10 from beyond the arc. His triple-double comes just three nights after he narrowly missed one due to a rebound being taken away in the final stats of a game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

With this win, the Mavericks showcased their depth and resilience despite ongoing injuries, with Doncic emphasizing the team’s “next-man-up mentality.”

Looking ahead, the Spurs will host Utah on Tuesday night, while the Mavericks will visit Phoenix on Monday night to conclude the NBA’s Christmas schedule.

SAN FRANCISCO — Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry propelled the Golden State Warriors to a commanding 126-106 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, marking their fifth consecutive win. Thompson led the charge with 28 points, while Curry added 27, as the Warriors solidified their return to form.

The “Splash Brothers” were particularly instrumental in the third quarter, combining for 22 points to help Golden State build a 12-point lead heading into the final period. Thompson’s resurgence was evident as he scored 11 straight points, including consecutive 3-pointers.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr praised Thompson’s shot selection, noting the positive impact on the team’s overall efficiency. Curry echoed this sentiment, highlighting Thompson’s improved game flow and shot-making.

This win streak matches Golden State’s longest of the season and brings their record to 15-14, marking the first time they have been over .500 since November 12. The victory sets the stage for a Christmas Day matchup against the Denver Nuggets.

The Warriors have dominated their season series against Portland, winning all three encounters this month. Trayce Jackson-Davis and Brandin Podziemski played key roles in the fourth quarter to extend the Warriors’ lead, with Podziemski continuing his impressive streak of versatile performances.

Kerr spoke positively about the balance between the team’s veterans and young players, noting the depth and complementary nature of the roster.

For Portland, Anfernee Simons led with 25 points, coming off a season-high 41-point performance against Washington. However, the Trail Blazers, who have lost nine of their last ten games, struggled to maintain their initial momentum and were hampered by the absence of guard Shaedon Sharpe due to injury.

Portland coach Chauncey Billups acknowledged the challenge of sustaining performance against the Warriors, citing Golden State’s rebounding and persistent pressure as key factors in the outcome.

Looking ahead, the Trail Blazers will host Sacramento on Tuesday night, while the Warriors face a tough challenge against the Nuggets in Denver on Monday.

CHICAGO — Max Strus stepped up with 26 points and seven assists, leading a depleted Cleveland Cavaliers to a 109-95 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. The Bulls, missing key player Zach LaVine, faced a resilient Cavaliers team that overcame the absence of their top scorers.

DeMar DeRozan led the Bulls with 21 points, while Nikola Vucevic added a double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Bulls couldn’t match the energy and execution of the Cavaliers.

Jarrett Allen was a dominant force for Cleveland, contributing 19 points and 17 rebounds. Craig Porter Jr. also had a standout performance with 19 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. The Cavaliers were without Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Caris LeVert, who together average 78 points per game.

Cleveland coach J.B. Bickerstaff lauded his team’s character and commitment, highlighting their physical and mental toughness in the face of adversity. Mitchell missed his third consecutive game due to illness, while Garland and Mobley are both sidelined until at least February. LeVert, dealing with left knee tendonitis, was also unable to play.

Cleveland has shown remarkable resilience, winning four of its last five games despite the mounting injuries. Strus emphasized the team’s “next man up” mentality and praised Porter for his sensational performance.

Strus, particularly effective in the closing stages, scored 10 of Cleveland’s last 16 points. Porter, on a two-way contract with the Cleveland Charge of the NBA G-League, played a crucial role in facilitating Strus’ scoring.

Cleveland also missed Sam Merrill, who was sidelined with a wrist injury. Merrill had been a key contributor in recent games, including a career-high 27 points against Utah.

One of the game’s defining moments came in the third quarter when Strus, a former Bull, dunked over Vucevic, initially called an offensive foul but overturned upon review. This play boosted the Cavaliers, who extended their lead with consecutive baskets by Strus and Georges Niang.

Porter missed a free throw early in the fourth quarter, but Tristan Thompson’s tip-in and Damian Jones’ three-pointer extended Cleveland’s lead. Although Patrick Williams briefly cut the lead to five for the Bulls, Strus responded with eight straight points, energizing the team and the crowd.

Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will face Dallas on Wednesday night, while the Bulls host Atlanta on Tuesday.

OKLAHOMA CITY — LeBron James put on a sensational display, scoring a season-high 40 points, to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 129-120 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night, snapping their four-game losing streak.

The 38-year-old James was exceptional, shooting 13 of 20 from the field, including a perfect five 3-pointers, and making all nine of his free throws. His all-around performance also included seven rebounds, seven assists, and two key blocks.

Oklahoma City had rallied to cut down what was a 26-point Lakers’ lead to just eight points in the fourth quarter. However, James stepped up, scoring 11 crucial points in the final 4:29 to secure the win for the Lakers.

Reflecting on his impact, James expressed satisfaction in his ability to make decisive plays and close out the game, especially when the Thunder were mounting a comeback.

Anthony Davis, who had emphasized the importance of this game, contributed significantly with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Rui Hachimura added 21 points, and Austin Reaves provided 11 points and nine assists for the Lakers, who improved their record after a challenging stretch since winning the In-Season Tournament.

The Lakers were efficient, shooting 52.2% from the field and recording a season-high 37 assists with just nine turnovers. James highlighted the team’s cohesive play, noting their focus on accurate passing and minimizing turnovers.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 34 points, while Jalen Williams added 28 points. Chet Holmgren contributed a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Thunder, who had been on a winning run, couldn’t overcome the Lakers’ offensive onslaught.

Hachimura’s 16 points in the first half were instrumental in the Lakers establishing a 71-59 lead at halftime. The Lakers maintained their momentum in the third quarter, with James and Davis combining for impressive plays, forcing Oklahoma City to call multiple timeouts.

Despite the Thunder reducing the deficit to single digits in the fourth quarter, the Lakers, led by James’ late heroics, held on for the victory.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the Lakers’ desperation for a win and the need for his team to raise their level of play, especially in the first half.

Looking ahead, the Lakers host the Boston Celtics on Monday, while the Thunder will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night.

ATLANTA — Ja Morant and Desmond Bane powered the Memphis Grizzlies to their third consecutive victory since Morant’s return, beating the Atlanta Hawks 125-119 on Saturday night. Morant, who rated his first three games back with the team as a perfect 10, contributed 30 points and 11 assists in the win.

Bane led the scoring for Memphis with 37 points and also provided seven rebounds and six assists. The Grizzlies, who had a challenging start to the season with a 6-19 record during Morant’s 25-game suspension, have found a renewed sense of spirit and momentum with his return.

In a historic performance for the Hawks, Trae Young matched an NBA record with his seventh consecutive game of at least 30 points and 10 assists, tying Oscar Robertson’s record set between December 1964 and January 1965. Despite Young’s efforts, the Hawks have struggled, going 3-4 over these seven games.

Jaren Jackson Jr. also played a significant role for Memphis, shooting an efficient 8-for-10 from the field to finish with 20 points.

The Grizzlies’ crucial run in the game came after a tie at 106, with Memphis scoring nine straight points. Morant’s floater over Young was a highlight, giving them a solid lead with just over three minutes remaining, which the Hawks couldn’t overcome.

Morant’s performance was a showcase of his versatility, scoring effectively from various spots on the court and facilitating for his teammates. This teamwork helped the Grizzlies achieve over 50% shooting for the third time since Morant’s return, a first for the team this season.

Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins acknowledged the team’s defensive improvements, particularly in limiting second-chance points in the second half, which was a key factor in their comeback.

The Hawks, leading by 10 at halftime, could not maintain their momentum in the second half. The Grizzlies’ 10-0 run at the start of the third quarter significantly closed the gap.

The Hawks were without starting forward De’Andre Hunter due to knee soreness, which impacted their lineup balance.

Looking ahead, the Grizzlies will visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday, while the Hawks face a challenging matchup against the Chicago Bulls on the same day.

NEW YORK — The Detroit Pistons matched an unwelcome NBA record, enduring their 26th consecutive loss in a single season as they fell 126-115 to the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night. This dubious feat ties them with the 2010-11 Cleveland Cavaliers and the 2013-14 Philadelphia 76ers for the longest losing streak in league history.

The Pistons, now 2-27, are experiencing a historically difficult season under the guidance of coach Monty Williams. Despite keeping the game competitive in the second half, Detroit couldn’t withstand a decisive 15-0 run by the Nets that stretched their lead to 21 points. The loss keeps the Pistons winless since Oct. 28, with their next opportunity for a win coming Tuesday night in a rematch against Brooklyn.

Center Isaiah Stewart and guard Cade Cunningham expressed the team’s frustration and the challenge of enduring such a protracted losing streak. Cunningham emphasized the need for a concrete plan of action to turn things around.

Mikal Bridges led the way for the Nets with 29 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, while Cam Thomas added 20 points. The Nets snapped their own five-game losing streak, shooting an efficient 52% from the field. Detroit’s 14 turnovers, which led to 22 Brooklyn points, were a significant factor in the game’s outcome.

Coach Williams pointed out the detrimental impact of turnovers and refused to attribute the team’s struggles to bad luck, instead focusing on the need for better execution.

The Pistons were within reach in the third quarter before the Nets’ surge widened the gap. Brooklyn’s Royce O’Neale and Day’Ron Sharpe played key roles in extending the lead at the end of the third quarter, and the Nets maintained control in the fourth.

Jaden Ivey scored 23 points for Detroit, while Cunningham, limited by early foul trouble, finished with 22 points. The Pistons, one of the youngest teams in the league, have struggled with fouls and turnovers throughout the season.

Former Williams player and current Nets forward Cam Johnson offered words of encouragement, suggesting that Detroit’s young roster has the potential to grow and improve from these tough experiences.

The game began promisingly for Detroit with an early 6-0 lead, but turnovers in the first quarter led to Brooklyn establishing a comfortable advantage. The Pistons played better in the second quarter but were unable to significantly cut into the Nets’ lead, trailing 65-56 at halftime.

As the Pistons look to avoid setting a new record for consecutive losses, they face Brooklyn again on Tuesday, while the Nets aim to build on their victory.

TORONTO — Jordan Clarkson and Lauri Markkanen’s scoring prowess powered the Utah Jazz to a remarkable comeback victory, overcoming a 17-point deficit to defeat the Toronto Raptors 126-119 on Saturday night. Clarkson, who was particularly effective in the fourth quarter, scored 30 points, matching Markkanen’s tally.

Clarkson’s performance was crucial in the final quarter, where he scored 16 of his 30 points. His return, along with Markkanen’s, provided a significant boost to the Jazz, who had been struggling on the road with a 4-13 record away from home. Markkanen was back on the court after missing a game due to a sore left hamstring, while Clarkson had been sidelined for six games with a sore right hamstring.

Jazz coach Will Hardy commended Clarkson’s seamless integration back into the team, highlighting his strong meshing with teammates. Kris Dunn also played a pivotal role, distributing a season-high 13 assists, alongside 16 points from Collin Sexton and 10 each from John Collins and Walker Kessler.

Scottie Barnes led the Raptors with a career-matching high of 32 points and added 14 rebounds. Pascal Siakam and O.G. Anunoby each contributed 19 points, with Gary Trent Jr. and Dennis Schroder scoring 16 and 11 points, respectively.

The Jazz, trailing 98-85 after three quarters, mounted an impressive comeback in the fourth. They used a 19-6 run, capped by Clarkson’s layup, to tie the game at 104. The Raptors’ coach Darko Rajakovic noted the shift in momentum at the start of the third quarter that allowed Utah to claw back into the game.

Markkanen and Clarkson then combined to propel the Jazz ahead, scoring 10 straight points to secure a 116-106 lead with just over four minutes remaining. Markkanen praised the team’s resilience and determination in achieving the turnaround.

The Jazz were without Talen Horton-Tucker and Keyonte George due to foot injuries, yet managed to pull off their third consecutive win against Toronto.

Looking ahead, the Jazz will visit San Antonio on Tuesday night, while the Raptors embark on a three-game trip starting in Washington on Wednesday.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Denver Nuggets showcased a remarkable defensive performance, holding the Charlotte Hornets without a field goal for over 11 minutes in the third quarter, en route to a 102-95 victory on Saturday night. Michael Porter Jr. led the Nuggets with 22 points, while Nikola Jokic contributed 18 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists.

Jamal Murray added 20 points and 12 rebounds for Denver, playing a key role in the team’s dominant second-half start. The Nuggets began the second half with a 25-1 run and outscored the Hornets 30-9 in the third quarter. This impressive stretch included preventing the Hornets from scoring a field goal on 17 consecutive possessions.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised the defensive effort as one of the most impressive in his tenure with the team. Murray also acknowledged the significance of the quarter, noting it as a benchmark for future performance comparisons.

On the other side, Hornets coach Steve Clifford pointed out the lack of ball movement and reliance on isolation plays as factors in the team’s offensive struggles against Denver’s disciplined defense.

Miles Bridges scored 22 points and P.J. Washington had 20 for the injury-riddled Charlotte, which suffered its seventh consecutive loss. The Hornets faced setbacks with Terry Rozier ruled out due to a knee injury and Brandon Miller spraining his ankle in the game, adding to their list of sidelined players, including LaMelo Ball and Mark Williams.

The game provided an opportunity for rookie Nick Smith Jr., who responded with a career-high 19 points, including five 3-pointers. Smith emphasized his focus on maintaining offensive rhythm and taking advantage of open shots.

Despite trailing 60-54 at halftime, the Nuggets took control in the third quarter with Jokic, Murray, and Aaron Gordon, who finished with 14 points, leading the charge. Denver’s defense limited the Hornets to just 2-of-22 shooting in the quarter.

The Hornets mounted a late rally, cutting the deficit to three, largely thanks to Smith’s long-distance shooting. However, Jokic’s crucial late-game contributions, including a spin move and free throws, helped Denver secure the win, even as he fouled out with a few seconds remaining.

Cody Martin returned to action for the Hornets, his first appearance since January, scoring six points in 17 minutes. His return is a positive sign for a team grappling with numerous injuries.

Looking forward, the Nuggets will face Golden State on Monday, while the Hornets will take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday night.

INDIANAPOLIS — Rookie sensation Paolo Banchero led the way with 34 points as the Orlando Magic snapped their four-game losing streak with a 117-110 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night. Banchero’s efficient shooting, going 11 of 20 from the field and 12 of 16 from the free-throw line, was crucial in Orlando’s triumph.

Franz Wagner contributed significantly with 24 points for the Magic. Banchero, reflecting on the team’s recent struggles, emphasized their focus and determination to return to winning ways, particularly through defensive efforts.

Tyrese Haliburton, despite his impressive 29 points and 14 assists for the Pacers, expressed dissatisfaction with his recent performances, feeling he’s been more of a hindrance than a help to the team. Myles Turner and Buddy Hield also contributed with 24 and 20 points, respectively.

The Magic’s shooting accuracy was a slight edge over the Pacers, with Orlando shooting 53% from the field compared to Indiana’s 52%. However, the significant difference came at the free-throw line, where the Magic capitalized by making 33 of their 41 attempts, while the Pacers only attempted 13 free throws.

Magic coach Jamahl Mosley praised his team’s approach, highlighting their adaptability and execution based on the flow of the game.

The Pacers, attempting to counterbalance the free throw disparity, found success from the 3-point line, hitting 15 shots compared to the Magic’s six. Despite this, the Pacers’ rally from a 14-point deficit to pull within one point after three quarters wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

Mosley lauded his team’s resilience and ability to regain control in the crucial stages, particularly emphasizing their execution and defensive stops down the stretch.

Orlando’s inside scoring was another key to their victory, as they shot nearly 62% from close range and built a 73-59 lead by halftime, led by Banchero’s 23 first-half points.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle lamented his team’s 30 fouls, which led to several players, including Andrew Nesmith who fouled out, being in foul trouble. Carlisle described the foul and free-throw disparity as “embarrassing.”

Haliburton pointed out the Pacers’ defensive positioning issues, which led to excessive fouling and allowed the Magic to frequently visit the free-throw line.

The Magic were without Jalen Suggs, sidelined with a wrist injury. Gary Harris stepped up in his absence, scoring 15 points. The Pacers also missed Bruce Brown due to injury, with Andrew Nembhard filling in and scoring 17 points.

Carlisle acknowledged the Pacers’ inconsistency, labeling them as a .500 team following this loss.

Looking ahead, the Magic will face Washington on Tuesday to conclude their three-game trip, while the Pacers will start a two-game trip against Houston the same night.

NEW ORLEANS — Alperen Sengun’s stellar performance, scoring a career-high 37 points along with 11 rebounds, propelled the Houston Rockets to a narrow 106-104 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night. Sengun’s agility and speed played a crucial role in outmaneuvering Pelicans’ veteran Jonas Valanciunas, leading to a matchup that favored the young Rockets’ center.

While acknowledging Valanciunas’ strength, Sengun utilized his quickness to gain an advantage, resulting in Valanciunas fouling out with just over four minutes left in the game. This strategic play was a significant factor in the Rockets’ win.

Jabari Smith Jr. contributed impressively with 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Fred VanVleet added 10 points. Houston’s defensive effort and transition play frustrated the Pelicans, evidenced by their 11-0 advantage in fast-break points.

Smith, in his second year out of Auburn, is showing signs of emerging as a consistent scoring threat, having scored at least 26 points in two of his last three games. Rockets coach Ime Udoka praised Smith’s growing confidence and ability to use his size effectively.

The Pelicans’ Zion Williamson led his team with 28 points, primarily through powerful moves near the basket. Brandon Ingram and Trey Murphy added 19 and 14 points, respectively. However, turnovers in crucial moments and missed free throws, including five by Williamson, proved costly for New Orleans.

Pelicans coach Willie Green emphasized the need for better execution, particularly in taking care of the ball and making free throws. The team also struggled from the three-point line, missing 23 of their 31 attempts.

The game remained closely contested throughout, with no team leading by more than seven points. The Pelicans held a six-point lead early in the fourth quarter, but Houston’s bench sparked a 9-0 run against New Orleans’ starters, turning the tide in the Rockets’ favor.

Williamson acknowledged Houston’s physical play, which played a role in their victory. The game’s intensity was also evident in a first-half scuffle involving Jose Alvarado, Smith, and Naji Marshall, leading to technical fouls.

Williamson’s 18 first-half points, including a rare three-pointer, initially gave the Pelicans the momentum, but the Rockets managed to close out the game effectively, thanks to Sengun’s scoring in the final minutes.

Sengun, expressing confidence in his future, highlighted his young age and determination to continue improving and contributing to his team.

Both teams are set to continue their campaigns on Tuesday night, with the Rockets hosting Indiana and the Pelicans facing Memphis.

LOS ANGELES — The Boston Celtics delivered a dominant performance against the Los Angeles Clippers, cruising to a 145-108 victory on Saturday, led by Jayson Tatum’s 30 points and Jaylen Brown’s 24. The win, which kicks off the Celtics’ Christmas weekend in Southern California, extends their impressive run to seven wins in eight games.

Jrue Holiday added 20 points and seven assists, playing a crucial role in Boston’s offensive firepower. The Celtics were exceptional from beyond the arc, hitting 25 of their 53 three-point attempts (47.2%). This proficiency in shooting helped them establish a commanding lead early and maintain it throughout the game.

The Celtics’ efficient shooting continued against the Clippers, with the team shooting 52.1% overall. This performance sets the stage for their upcoming Christmas Day game against the Los Angeles Lakers, another key matchup in the same arena.

Despite the significant win, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla downplayed its importance, focusing instead on areas of improvement and execution.

The Clippers, missing Kawhi Leonard due to a left hip contusion, struggled to find their rhythm. Paul George led the team with 21 points, and James Harden contributed with 14 points and 10 assists. However, the absence of Leonard was felt on both ends of the court, as the Clippers shot 46.1% from the field and 32.4% from three-point range.

Boston’s dominance was evident in every quarter. They led 28-21 after the first and extended their lead to 68-51 by halftime. Tatum, despite an injury scare in the second quarter, continued his impressive performance, contributing to the Celtics’ sizable lead.

The Celtics’ ability to convert defensive stops into fast-paced offensive opportunities was a key factor in their victory. Mazzulla emphasized the team’s development of a fast-paced identity balanced with efficient execution.

Neemias Queta’s double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds highlighted Boston’s rebounding advantage. Derrick White also continued his strong scoring form, adding 18 points.

For the Clippers, Daniel Theis and Brandon Boston Jr. made contributions, but the team overall couldn’t match Boston’s intensity and execution.

Looking ahead, the Celtics face the Lakers on Monday in a highly anticipated matchup, while the Clippers will host the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday, hoping to rebound from their recent setbacks.

NEW YORK — Giannis Antetokounmpo’s all-around brilliance was on full display as he led the Milwaukee Bucks to a commanding 130-111 victory over the New York Knicks on Saturday. Antetokounmpo finished with 28 points, seven assists, and seven rebounds, while Bobby Portis contributed a double-double with 23 points and 11 boards. This win marked the Bucks’ seventh consecutive victory and their ninth straight win over the Knicks.

Khris Middleton also played a key role, scoring 20 points for Milwaukee. The Bucks maintained control throughout the game, starting strong and never relinquishing their lead. They sealed the game early in the fourth quarter with an 11-0 run, highlighted by Portis’ 3-pointer that extended the lead to 114-92.

This victory sets the stage for a rematch on Monday, which will be televised nationally as part of the NBA’s Christmas schedule. The Knicks, who have struggled against the Bucks, will look to break the one-sided nature of this matchup.

Damian Lillard contributed significantly to the Bucks’ win, with 19 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Malik Beasley’s sharpshooting was also crucial, as he hit five 3-pointers to add 19 points to the Bucks’ tally.

The Knicks’ Jalen Brunson continued his strong performance against Milwaukee, scoring 36 points following his 45-point effort in their previous meeting. Julius Randle added 26 points and seven rebounds, but the Knicks couldn’t sustain momentum, having their two-game winning streak snapped.

The Bucks and Knicks have already faced off multiple times this season, including their quarterfinal match in the In-Season Tournament. Milwaukee’s shooting prowess was evident again, as they hit 60% from the field and over 60% from beyond the arc in their previous encounter. They continued this trend with a 5-for-7 three-point shooting performance in the opening quarter.

The Bucks’ stay in New York will extend beyond Monday’s game, as they are scheduled to play in Brooklyn on Wednesday. Some players plan to bring family or visit relatives to celebrate the holiday season during this period.

Looking ahead to their next meeting, the Knicks will need to find a way to counter Milwaukee’s dominance to avoid another loss to the Bucks on the national stage.